Patiala hospital to become brain stroke treatment hub: Health Minister

In a significant step toward strengthening emergency medical care, Punjab Health and Family Welfare Minister Dr Balbir Singh announced that Government Rajindra Hospital, Patiala, will be developed as a dedicated hub for the immediate treatment of brain stroke (paralysis) cases.

Singh reviewed the proposed strategy with a team of expert doctors. He noted that Patiala wsa already successfully operating as a heart attack treatment hub, where patients from nearby districts receive preliminary care—including ECG and lifesaving medication—at spoke centers before being referred to the main hospital. This (ST- segment elevation myocardial infraction) STEMI model- a brainchild of cardiologist Dr Bishav Mohan- has so far saved the lives of 583 heart patients across the state, with over 700 healthcare workers trained to manage such cases effectively.

Building on the success, Singh announced that the same system will now be adopted for brain stroke management. The advanced treatment protocols available in private hospitals like Fortis or Max will now be accessible at Rajindra Hospital—completely free of cost for the public.